Columbus, Ohio – Skies across Ohio could light up in rare fashion tonight as the Northern Lights push farther south than usual. Residents in central and northern Ohio should watch the horizon after dusk, where conditions may favor aurora viewing.
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, a coronal mass ejection racing from the sun is sparking geomagnetic storm activity through Tuesday morning. The agency says states from Virginia to Kansas, including Ohio, could see aurora activity if skies remain clear. Drivers along I-70 and I-71 may catch glimpses overnight, but officials urge motorists to keep eyes on the road and stop safely before looking skyward.
Locally, clear skies Monday night will give way to sunshine Tuesday with a high near 82 degrees. Light winds will keep conditions comfortable, though clouds may increase by Wednesday as showers develop. Rain chances rise to 40 percent Wednesday night, followed by a stronger system Thursday that could bring widespread downpours and a chance of thunderstorms.
The National Weather Service in Wilmington advises residents to charge devices and secure outdoor items before Thursday’s storms. Those traveling should prepare for slower commutes and possible ponding on roads. By Friday, drier air returns with cooler highs in the low 70s, offering a crisp start to meteorological fall.
Warnings for geomagnetic activity remain in effect through Tuesday morning. Additional space weather advisories may follow depending on storm strength.
Five-Day Forecast for Columbus, Ohio
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 82. Low 57.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 81. Chance of showers late, 20%. Low 61.
- Thursday: Showers likely, possible thunderstorms. High 70. Low 49.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 74. Low 55.
- Saturday: Sunny, high 72. Low 48.
